SAFC Salvages Late Point vs. Los Dos

By CHRIS HOCKMAN – chris.hockman@uslsoccer.com, 09/10/17, 12:30AM EDT

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Reed's free kick denies Galaxy II victory on home turf

Photo Courtesy LA Galaxy II

CARSON, Calif. – San Antonio FC scored late again, but this time it couldn’t get a winner as it had to settle for a 1-1 draw with the LA Galaxy II at the StubHub Center Track and Field Stadium on Saturday night. A corner kick gave Los Dos the lead six minutes in to the second half as Alejandro Covarrubias swung in the corner for a wide open Jean Engola, who easily headed it home for his first USL goal. For the second week in-a-row San Antonio left it late, with captain Michael Reed hitting a powerful free kick which salvaged a point for SAFC in the 88th minute from 25 yards out. San Antonio controlled possession through the first half, with 54.4 percent of the ball but the visitors struggled to convert that domination into chances, managing just four shots in the half. LA Galaxy II midfielder Ethan Zubak could have made it two for Los Dos in the 69th minute as he was played clean through only for SAFC keeper Diego Restrepo to come out and get a touch, allowing defender Stephen McCarthy to slide in and clear the chance from danger.

1. San Antonio seemed to be out of its slump as it managed two straight wins, but with three players suspended for this match the side took a draw to keep its undefeated streak going. SAFC will be hoping the return of Sebastian Ibeagha, Kris Tyrpak and Cesar Elizondo leads to a return to the win column when the side faces Orange County SC on Wednesday night to complete its west-coast trip.

2. Just when it looked like the Galaxy II would finally get another home win, just their fourth of the season, they were left to settle for a draw on a stunning Reed free kick. Desperately needing points to qualify for the USL Cup Playoffs, the Galaxy II need to go on a late run of wins. With the way the side has struggled at home this season, having five of its last six games on the road will be a test, but could see the side reap some reward.

3. Scoring first is always important, but it’s especially important when playing San Antonio, with the side having won only won once coming from behind this season. That victory occurred in SAFC's prior outing to Saturday night against Real Monarchs SLC, a trend that needs to be shaken if SAFC wants to be a force in the playoffs, and with this late equalizer it may well be on the way out.

USLSoccer.com Man of the Match

Alejandro Covarrubias, LA Galaxy II – Covarrubias was dangerous for the Galaxy II on their set pieces as he swung in the corner for the equalizer. Covarrubias created five chances throughout the match, managing an 80.6 percent passing accuracy.